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Travelers often choose Marina del Rey when staying overnight in the Los Angeles area because of its proximity to Los Angeles International Airport (4 miles/6 km), its waterfront harbor, and its location next to Venice Beach and Santa Monica and more affordable hotel prices.

Considered one of the most famous places in Los Angeles and listed as one of the top attractions in Southern California, the amusing and memorable Venice Beach is a magnet for locals and tourists. Its glorious two-mile stretch of wide, white sand beach lies within walking distance of Marina del Rey. The “constant carnival” of colorful vendors, musicians and artists along Ocean Front Walk which parallels the beach draws skaters, bikers, surfers and bodybuilders to one of the funkiest towns in America. Venice Beach is within walking distance to Marina del Rey.

The bohemian feel of Venice Beach extends to Abbott Kinney Boulevard, home to an eclectic array of fine art galleries, antique shops, one-of-a-kind clothing boutiques, hip cafes and well-known restaurants.Stores stay open late and sponsor special events on the first Friday of each month.

Three miles north of Marina del Rey lies trend-setting Santa Monica, a city full of diversions, and a great place to spend the day. The landmark Santa Monica Pier and Santa Monica Beach have been featured in movies, television shows and commercials, and the palm-and cypress-tree lined Palisades Park overlooking the ocean is a beautiful place to stroll. Visitors flock to the famous Third Street Promenade (and Second and Fourth Streets), chic Montana Avenue and Main Street for unique shopping opportunities, and the whole town is dotted with lively pubs, cafes, and world-class restaurants.

Some of the most remarkable architecture in recent LA history stands on the top of a hilltop at the Getty Center, an international cultural and philanthropic institution devoted to the visuals arts. Dominating 110 acres of the Santa Monica Mountains to 10 miles north of Marina del Rey, the Museum consists of five sequential pavilions entered from a central courtyard. The collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum on display in the galleries includes pre-20-th century European paintings, drawings, illuminated manuscripts, sculpture and decorative arts; and 19th-and 20th century American and European photographs. The 134,000-square foot Central Garden leads visitors through an extraordinary experience of sights, sounds, and scents. Admission to the Getty Center is free.

Throughout the world, the mere mention of “Beverly Hills” conjures an image of fame and wealth, and for over 50 years TV and film have done their part in reinforcing this image. Rent a convertible and head to Beverly Hills for shopping, dining and strolling. Glitzy Rodeo Drive is a great place to center your visit, and the surrounding streets are jammed with designer houses, unique boutiques and one-of-a-kind fashions and gifts. You’ll recognize the frequently filmed palm-lined streets, top brand stores, and probably a celebrity or two in the mix.

The Museum of Tolerance allows guests to confront closely held beliefs while learning about racism and bigotry. Two main sections include the Tolerance Center which focuses on racism and prejudice in America, and the Holocaust section which chronicles the history of the Holocaust. In addition, the museum houses a multimedia learning center, artifacts and documents of the Holocaust, survivor testimonies and special exhibits. An educational arm of the Simon Wiesenthal Center founded by the famous Nazi-hunter, the museum was created to challenge visitors to address bigotry and racism and to understand the Holocaust in both historic and contemporary contexts.

Other Attractions in the Los Angeles Area

For additional information on the Los Angeles area, contact LA INC, The Convention and Visitors Bureau.